In an era defined by rapid disruption and shifting consumer sentiment, the real retail winners will be brands that use data to connect with real people.

In this year’s edition of the Retail Customer Engagement Review, Braze explores the marketing trends brands need to know for 2026. The biggest finding? The AI arms race is less about having the right tools, and more about building trust and human connection retail consumers. Retailers who focus on customer needs and a composable approach to data and intelligence can lay the foundation for customer engagement and loyalty, no matter what the future holds.

Download and read this report to learn how embracing technology can help you connect more deeply with customers – and gain a powerful competitive advantage.